Q: Animal control gave me a ticket to appear in court for a dog barking. I don't own a dog.
I stayed the night at the house of a friends, I had to much to drink the night prior. I woke up to animal control knocking on the door. He was rude and demanded to see my ID, I shouldn't have but I gave him my ID. He gave me a ticket and now I have to appear in court for a dog that isn't mine. I tried to get the owner who owns the dog to give me his info and info on the dog. But the owner is not willing to give me the info, as its "not his problem". So I have court in a few weeks and have no way of defending myself. What can I do or what are my options?
A: Why do you have no way of defending yourself? Show up, plead not guilty. Prove you don't live at or own the house or the dog. Or, hire an attorney to do it for you.
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A: You can plead your facts as your defense and bring evidence that you don't live there and don't own a dog, e.g., witnesses, a lease, etc. More details are necessary to provide a professional analysis of your issue. The best first step is an Initial Consultation with an Attorney. You can read more about me, my credentials, awards, honors, testimonials, and media appearances/ publications on my law practice website, www.AEesq.com. I practice law in CA, NY, MA, and DC in the following areas of law: Business & Contracts, Criminal Defense, Divorce & Child Custody, and Education Law. This answer does not constitute legal advice; make any predictions, guarantees, or warranties; or create any Attorney-Client relationship.
A: You can hire an attorney. If this is a misdemeanor, a local municipal code, it is still a serious case. However, you need an attorney to review the case and discuss your options. Probably not a do it yourself project.
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